Ecmweb 6101 022014wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6101 022014wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6101 022014wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6101 022014wwhpromo
Ecmweb 6101 022014wwhpromo

What’s Wrong Here? Hint: Danger Island

Feb. 20, 2014
Can you identify the Code violation(s) in this photo?

How well do you know the Code? Think you can spot violations the original installer either ignored or couldn't identify? Here's your chance to moonlight as an electrical inspector and second-guess someone else's work from the safety of your living room or office. It's your turn to identify the violation.

Hint: Danger island

Find the Answer

I discovered this dangerous uncovered panel while I was visiting the Caribbean island of Antigua. I am not sure which electrical code is in effect on this particular island; however, I do know for sure that this is a great example of an NEC violation.

According to 110.27(A), energized parts of electrical equipment that operate at 50V or higher must be guarded against accidental contact by: enclosures or location in a room, vault or similar enclosure accessible to qualified persons only; screens or partitions where only qualified persons can access the live parts; or locating the equipment in an elevated position where only qualified people can access the equipment. Warning signs forbidding unqualified persons from entering those spaces must also be installed in accordance with the requirements of 110.27(C).

This open panel was not guarded or isolated in any way. In fact, any shopper or even a small child could easily reach directly into this panel intentionally or accidentally. Either way, making contact with these exposed energized parts could result in a deadly shock or an arc flash burn. This would be one sure way to ruin your vacation!

About the Author

Russ LeBlanc | Owner

Russ started in the electrical trade as an apprentice in 1985. He worked his way up to become a Journeyman Electrician and then eventually became a Master Electrician and Licensed Construction Supervisor. In 1999 Russ become an Electrical Instructor for The Peterson School of Engineering in Massachusetts where he developed his passion for teaching, and quickly became Department Head of Electrical Instruction. Russ has taught thousands of apprentices, electricians, engineers, inspectors, and other electrical professionals during his career as an instructor. He continues to provide electrical professionals with Electrical Code seminars, Arc-Flash Awareness training seminars and educational material through his LeBlanc Consulting Services in North Reading, MA whose specialty is educating electricians. He has been an active member of the NFPA Electrical Section and has authored hundreds of National Electrical Code proposals and comments which have become Code rules to improve the safety for the electrical industry. Russ is also an IAEI certified Electrical Inspector.

Please visit www.russleblanc.net for more information.

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